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A woman with learning difficulties should not be told that she has been covertly fitted with a contraceptive device, a judge has decided.

Lord Justice Baker said the woman’s personal autonomy and human rights had been infringed when the device was fitted without her knowledge six years ago.

But he has concluded that the device should remain and says telling her about it would harm relationships with people she depends on.

He said the issue would need to be kept under review.

Lord Justice Baker said the woman’s personal autonomy and human rights had been infringed (Picture: Getty)

The judge had analysed the woman’s case at a hearing in the specialist Court of Protection, where issues relating to people who lack the mental capacity to make decisions are considered, in London. He has outlined his decision in a written ruling.

Another Court of Protection judge had approved the covert fitting of the device in 2012 after social workers raised concern about the woman being vulnerable and a target for sexual exploitation.